Market analysis suggests that the iPad Air is set to receive an OLED display upgrade, though it appears the wait could be extensive. A recent conference shed light on what Omdia envisions for the display future of Apple’s device lineup, with a particular emphasis on the iPhone and iPad series.
Kong Min-Soo, an Omdia researcher, highlighted that while the transition of the iPad Pro to OLED by 2024 aligns with expectations, the projection that the iPad Air will adopt OLED technology by 2028 came as more of a surprise. He explained that the iPad Air is anticipated to employ both single-stack and two-stack tandem OLED technologies, the latter of which is already a speculated feature for the iPad Pro. The mention of single-stack technology for the iPad Air introduces a speculative detail about Apple’s OLED implementation plans.
The two-stack tandem OLED configuration, involving two layers of backlighting working in conjunction, is known for its efficiency in reducing power consumption and heat generation compared to the single-stack OLED displays.
In the nearer term, rumors suggest the imminent release of new iPad Air models, including standard and larger sizes, specifically 10.9-inch and 12.9-inch variants.
These insights were reported by The Elec, a publication recognized for its accurate reports on Apple's supply chain, despite occasionally misestimating Apple's schedule. Omdia, while considered a reputable market observer, also faces challenges in accurately predicting Apple's product development trajectory.
Early this year, potential design renderings for the 12.9-inch iPad Air model emerged, suggesting minimal design modifications beyond the size and a new camera setup.
According to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple may unveil two new iPad Air models in the first quarter of 2024. These updated versions are not expected to feature mini-LED technology but will likely benefit from the use of an Oxide backplane, similar in specification to current models.
Additionally, there's speculation about the inclusion of a FaceTime camera positioned along the longer edge of the device, akin to the design seen in the 10th generation iPad.
